A young man took over his father's real-estate business in 1970s and '80s New York, and got the helping hand of an infamous closeted gay lawyer who helped him turn this young man into a noto... Read allA young man took over his father's real-estate business in 1970s and '80s New York, and got the helping hand of an infamous closeted gay lawyer who helped him turn this young man into a notorious legend. Based on true events.A young man took over his father's real-estate business in 1970s and '80s New York, and got the helping hand of an infamous closeted gay lawyer who helped him turn this young man into a notorious legend. Based on true events.
- Nominated for 2 Oscars
- 4 wins & 46 nominations total
Mark Rendall
- Roger Stone
- (as Mark Rendal)
- Director
- Writer
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Summary
Reviewers say 'The Apprentice' delves into Donald Trump's early career under Roy Cohn, emphasizing ambition, power, and corruption. The performances, especially Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Cohn, are lauded for capturing character nuances. However, some critics argue the narrative lacks depth and coherence, often feeling scattered. While the film is seen as informative and engaging, it is criticized for not providing new insights into Trump's character. The visual aesthetics and period recreation are praised, but the script is noted for its simplicity and lack of subtlety. Overall, 'The Apprentice' is a mixed bag with strong performances and themes, yet significant storytelling and character development flaws.
Featured reviews
The film's director said in a recent interview that he wasn't sure if this film would enhance or detract from Donald Trump's reputation...
Having watched it, I'm not sure either...
I was initially attracted to this film as an MCU fan. Donald Trump is played by Sebastian Stan who is Bucky Barnes/The Winter Soldier in Marvel films. He does not disappoint as the US President to be...
The movie certainly starts off by making Trump look more human than perhaps he or some of the media have in the last few years...
How he's changed by the apprenticeship under Roy Cohn & the money & the power is certainly one of the themes...
The shots of him in the 80's that are made to look grainy like 80's TV are a nice touch...
If I have one criticism (which is why I gave it a 7) it is that the screenwriter didn't seem to know how to end it...
But it's worth watching just to see how well Donald Trump, Roy Cohn & Ivana Trump are portrayed... and how they are developed through the film...
Having watched it, I'm not sure either...
I was initially attracted to this film as an MCU fan. Donald Trump is played by Sebastian Stan who is Bucky Barnes/The Winter Soldier in Marvel films. He does not disappoint as the US President to be...
The movie certainly starts off by making Trump look more human than perhaps he or some of the media have in the last few years...
How he's changed by the apprenticeship under Roy Cohn & the money & the power is certainly one of the themes...
The shots of him in the 80's that are made to look grainy like 80's TV are a nice touch...
If I have one criticism (which is why I gave it a 7) it is that the screenwriter didn't seem to know how to end it...
But it's worth watching just to see how well Donald Trump, Roy Cohn & Ivana Trump are portrayed... and how they are developed through the film...
I saw this at a premiere screening and was blown away. The story is well told and accurate, which was refreshing. It was a reasonable portrayal of a fascinating man. What really got me was the acting. Sebastian Stan was phenomenal. He nailed Trump's mannerisms, and yet never fell into a caricature.
Jeremy Strong did a fantastic job of portraying Roy Cohen. The only thing that didn't quite land for me was that the character of Roy Cohen was presented as somewhat sympathetic and not as sinister and psychopathic as he actually was (not Strong's fault - that was the script). Other than that, an excellent and thought-provoking biopic.
Jeremy Strong did a fantastic job of portraying Roy Cohen. The only thing that didn't quite land for me was that the character of Roy Cohen was presented as somewhat sympathetic and not as sinister and psychopathic as he actually was (not Strong's fault - that was the script). Other than that, an excellent and thought-provoking biopic.
Sebastian Stan's portrayal of a young Donald Trump is so compelling that it effectively immerses the audience in the character, making it easy to forget that he is an actor. His precise use of body language and facial expressions contributes significantly to the authenticity of the characterization.
Jeremy Strong's performance as Roy Cohn is exceptional, showcasing a commanding screen presence that often eclipses that of the protagonist. His portrayal has not only captivated audiences but also successfully garnered him a new fanbase, which still would be an understatement of the impact his role has had.
Maria Bakalova's portrayal of Ivana Trump effectively captures the audience's attention whenever she appears on screen. Her nuanced performance brings depth and authenticity to the character with ability to convey both strength and vulnerability - transforming what could have been a weak link in the cast into a strong fit that enhances the overall dynamics of the ensemble.
Martin Donovan, Catherine McNally, and Ben Sullivan deliver outstanding performances as strong supporting pillars, ensuring that the narrative remains cohesive. Their contributions create a compelling backdrop that enhances the overall storytelling, making it impossible for the audience to overlook their presence.
Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan deliver a powerful performance as a duo, leaving a lasting impact that lingers well beyond the film's conclusion. Their portrayals skillfully illustrate the transition of power dynamics from Roy Cohn to Donald Trump, showcasing their equal mastery in navigating this complex evolving relationship with remarkable finesse and equal depth.
Ali Abbasi captures the essence of 1970s and '80s New York through meticulous direction and a keen eye for visual detail. His use of muted tones and warm hues evokes the gritty yet vibrant atmosphere of the era, while dynamic camera movements and carefully framed shots immerse the audience in the city's streets and intimate settings. This blend of realism and stylization authentically portrays not only transports viewers back in time but also highlights the emotional and social complexities of life in New York during this transformative period, creating a film that resonates with nostalgia and offers a fresh historical perspective.
Sum up - "The Apprentice" presents a captivating fusion of upbeat humor and thrilling narrative elements, engaging viewers from beginning to end. The sharpness in direction ensures a dynamic pacing that maintains audience interest throughout. Additionally, the visual aesthetics not only complement the narrative but also enhance the emotional resonance of the story, drawing the audience deeper into the film's atmosphere.
Character development is handled with care, offering relatable figures whose interactions evoke both humor and depth. This multifaceted approach allows for an emotional connection that elevates the narrative, making the film both entertaining and meaningful.
Overall, "The Apprentice" stands out in its genre as an upbeat and engaging film, skillfully combining humor with thrilling elements. These compelling combinations ensure that audiences are not just passive observers but active participants in the story, leaving them with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for what lies ahead. As a result, "The Apprentice" emerges as a memorable film that resonates long after the credits roll.
Jeremy Strong's performance as Roy Cohn is exceptional, showcasing a commanding screen presence that often eclipses that of the protagonist. His portrayal has not only captivated audiences but also successfully garnered him a new fanbase, which still would be an understatement of the impact his role has had.
Maria Bakalova's portrayal of Ivana Trump effectively captures the audience's attention whenever she appears on screen. Her nuanced performance brings depth and authenticity to the character with ability to convey both strength and vulnerability - transforming what could have been a weak link in the cast into a strong fit that enhances the overall dynamics of the ensemble.
Martin Donovan, Catherine McNally, and Ben Sullivan deliver outstanding performances as strong supporting pillars, ensuring that the narrative remains cohesive. Their contributions create a compelling backdrop that enhances the overall storytelling, making it impossible for the audience to overlook their presence.
Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan deliver a powerful performance as a duo, leaving a lasting impact that lingers well beyond the film's conclusion. Their portrayals skillfully illustrate the transition of power dynamics from Roy Cohn to Donald Trump, showcasing their equal mastery in navigating this complex evolving relationship with remarkable finesse and equal depth.
Ali Abbasi captures the essence of 1970s and '80s New York through meticulous direction and a keen eye for visual detail. His use of muted tones and warm hues evokes the gritty yet vibrant atmosphere of the era, while dynamic camera movements and carefully framed shots immerse the audience in the city's streets and intimate settings. This blend of realism and stylization authentically portrays not only transports viewers back in time but also highlights the emotional and social complexities of life in New York during this transformative period, creating a film that resonates with nostalgia and offers a fresh historical perspective.
Sum up - "The Apprentice" presents a captivating fusion of upbeat humor and thrilling narrative elements, engaging viewers from beginning to end. The sharpness in direction ensures a dynamic pacing that maintains audience interest throughout. Additionally, the visual aesthetics not only complement the narrative but also enhance the emotional resonance of the story, drawing the audience deeper into the film's atmosphere.
Character development is handled with care, offering relatable figures whose interactions evoke both humor and depth. This multifaceted approach allows for an emotional connection that elevates the narrative, making the film both entertaining and meaningful.
Overall, "The Apprentice" stands out in its genre as an upbeat and engaging film, skillfully combining humor with thrilling elements. These compelling combinations ensure that audiences are not just passive observers but active participants in the story, leaving them with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for what lies ahead. As a result, "The Apprentice" emerges as a memorable film that resonates long after the credits roll.
"The Apprentice" doesn't hold back. It doesn't try to be objective or find nuance where there is none; instead, it dives headfirst into the rise of a young Donald Trump, portraying him as a man shaped by manipulation, lack of scruples, and relentless ambition. This isn't a traditional biopic-it's a reconstruction of how his mindset was forged, leading him to become a figure who would later leave a profound mark on American politics.
Sebastian Stan takes on the challenge of portraying Trump without resorting to caricature or exaggerated imitation. His performance is unsettling because he captures not just the speech patterns and mannerisms, but also the calculated opportunism that defines him. Alongside him, Jeremy Strong plays Roy Cohn, Trump's mentor and a pivotal figure in his development. Strong's presence is magnetic, making it clear that Cohn's influence was instrumental in shaping Trump's worldview.
Ali Abbasi directs with a firm hand, avoiding unnecessary embellishments. The film works as a stark examination of corruption, power, and the dangerous alliances that can transform an individual into a media monster. It's a raw depiction that makes it clear that impunity and cynicism are essential tools in the world it portrays.
If The Apprentice has a flaw, it's that it doesn't always delve deeply into the psychology of its central character. It presents the events but sometimes lacks a more detailed analysis of his inner motivations. However, the emotional impact is undeniable.
In the end, the film accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do: it unsettles. There is no redemption, no unexpected twists-just a stark exposure of a transformation where anything goes in the pursuit of power. If you already despised Trump before watching, by the end, that feeling will have only intensified.
Sebastian Stan takes on the challenge of portraying Trump without resorting to caricature or exaggerated imitation. His performance is unsettling because he captures not just the speech patterns and mannerisms, but also the calculated opportunism that defines him. Alongside him, Jeremy Strong plays Roy Cohn, Trump's mentor and a pivotal figure in his development. Strong's presence is magnetic, making it clear that Cohn's influence was instrumental in shaping Trump's worldview.
Ali Abbasi directs with a firm hand, avoiding unnecessary embellishments. The film works as a stark examination of corruption, power, and the dangerous alliances that can transform an individual into a media monster. It's a raw depiction that makes it clear that impunity and cynicism are essential tools in the world it portrays.
If The Apprentice has a flaw, it's that it doesn't always delve deeply into the psychology of its central character. It presents the events but sometimes lacks a more detailed analysis of his inner motivations. However, the emotional impact is undeniable.
In the end, the film accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do: it unsettles. There is no redemption, no unexpected twists-just a stark exposure of a transformation where anything goes in the pursuit of power. If you already despised Trump before watching, by the end, that feeling will have only intensified.
This film was utterly brilliant from start to finish. The acting was definitely the best part and led by two extraordinary performances: Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong. This is the best work I have seen from Sebastian Stan, and one of the best works from Jeremy Strong (Succession is still his best). Stan completely becomes the character of Trump. He doesn't try mimicking him, but rather portrays a nuanced performance. In the best way possible, this film feels like it was made in the 1970s. The look, the atmosphere, and the performances really encapsulate the feel of 1970s films. One aspect I really loved about the film was that it was an actual good film. If you took out the fact that it is about Donald Trump, and made it completely fictional, it would still be a great film, and the two leads would still be great performances.
Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaRoger Stone, longtime associate of both Donald Trump and Roy M. Cohn, admitted that Jeremy Strong's portrayal of Cohn was "uncanny in its accuracy."
- GoofsThe logo of American Express used in the 1975 hotel scene is a modern Version, rather than the actual one used in the time setting.
- ConnectionsFeatured in The Project: Episode dated 11 October 2024 (2024)
- SoundtracksAnti Anti Anti
Performed by Consumers
Licensed courtesy of Domino Publishing Company Limited, (PRS) obo In The Red Recordings
Written by Paul B. Cutler
Published by BMG Rights Management (UK) Limited
Details
- Release date
- Countries of origin
- Official site
- Languages
- Also known as
- Talaba. Trumpning ko'tarilishi
- Filming locations
- Toronto, Ontario, Canada(location)
- Production companies
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
Box office
- Budget
- $15,000,000 (estimated)
- Gross US & Canada
- $4,001,904
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $1,613,233
- Oct 13, 2024
- Gross worldwide
- $17,274,164
- Runtime2 hours 2 minutes
- Color
- Sound mix
- Aspect ratio
- 1.50 : 1
Contribute to this page
Suggest an edit or add missing content
